Godparents

Candidates for Baptism should have two and must have at least one sponsor, or Godparent. Sponsors and parents present the infant for Baptism. The role of the sponsor is to help the baptized person lead a Christian life and fulfill the obligations connected with it, done especially by example.

Requirements for Godparents:

A Godparent cannot be the mother or father of the one to be baptized.

A Godparent must be at least 16 years old, a Catholic who has received the Holy Eucharist and has been confirmed. If married, he/she must be validly married in the Church and must not be cohabitating.

Although one Godparent is required, there can be two Godparents: a man and a woman.

Non-Christians cannot be Godparents, but a non-Catholic Christian can serve as a Christian Witness to the Baptism.

Becoming A Godparent or Sponsor? You Will Need a Letter of Eligibility A letter from your parish is required to become a God- parent for Baptism or a Sponsor for Confirmation. This letter indicates you are a practicing Catholic in good standing. It is therefore necessary to be a registered member of the Parish in order to establish eligibility. All Godparents and Sponsors, even if they are from Maternity B.V.M. Church, must present a letter of eligibility issued by their parish.